If I am attacked by a dog, do I have the right to make a claim against the owner?

Dog bite cases are very prevalent and you are definitely entitled to make a claim against the dog owner and in certain circumstances, you may have a claim against the owner’s home owners insurance policy. Dog bite cases are often severe and cause traumatic injuries often requiring one or more plastic surgeries. These surgeries significantly increase an injuries parties medical damages and overall recovery for pain and suffering. Choosing an attorney that deals frequently in dog bite cases, will likely improve your ability to recover your maximum compensation.

What questions should I ask a potential automobile accident attorney during my initial consultation?

There are several attorneys that practice in the area of automobile accidents. Some of those attorneys will strive to obtain the best possible settlement while others are more interested in settling the case as soon as possible to make a quick buck. When hiring an attorney, you should ask specific questions to ensure your attorney is experience and willing to put forth the effort for you to obtain the best possible settlement. Some of the questions are as follows:

1. What should I do about my injuries;
   
2. What coverage is available for my injuries and damages;
   
3. Do you handle the personal property damages (i.e. loss of use) along with the personal injury damages;
   
4. When is the proper time to make a settlement demand;
   
5. What am I likely to recover monetarily in this matter;
   
6. What happens to my medical bills following resolution of my case;
   
7. Are you will to work with the medical providers to reduce with medical bills thus increasing my monetary recovery;
   
8. What experience to you have in representing parties in automobile accidents;
   
9. Is there someone in your office I can speak to in your absence;
   
10. Will you be handling the case personally;
    
11. What is your policy or returning telephone calls and providing documentation to me from the other party;
    
12. Do you have medical providers that can treat me for my injuries;
    
13. How long will the claim/case take before it is concluded; and
    
14. Will I have to go to court to pursue this matter.
    

Why should I retain an attorney versus handle the matter myself after being involved in an automobile accident?

Many people attempt to represent themselves after being involved in an automobile accident; however, the insurance companies are not on your side. You may be entitled to benefits and compensation to which the insurance will not disclose. While you are unaware of your rights, the insurance companies will likely attempt to settle your matter quickly at a considerably lower cost to the insurance company.

Insurance companies will likely attempt to obtain a recorded statement immediately after the accident and prior to you retaining counsel thus you may not fully understand your injuries and rights. Once the recorded statement is obtained, the insurance company will attempt to use the statement against you when settling your matter.

Some benefits the insurance may not disclose to you are as follows:

• Right to a rental car;
  
• Right to compensation to pain and suffering;
  
• Right to compensation to medical damages;
  
• Right to compensation to lost wages;
  
• Right and compensation for disabilities if any arise; and
  
• Right to fair market value for your vehicle.
  

What if I am involved in an automobile accident with a person that does not have insurance or I do not know if they have insurance?

If you are involved in an accident, where the other driver is at fault, but does not have insurance or if you are unaware if they have insurance, you must speak to an attorney to determine other avenues of recovery. An attorney will be able to determine in the drive does in fact have insurance. If there is no insurance, you may be able to submit a claim against the at fault party directly and/or make a claim against an uninsured or underinsured policy of insurance with your own insurance company.

In my experience, in cases like these, you should avoid speaking to your own insurance company until you seek the advise of counsel.